Our Team

Patricia O’Donovan

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Patricia O’Donovan brings a wealth of experience in the community services sector and a deep commitment to strengthening the delivery of quality services to young children and families.
Patricia believes that the starting point for effective services that respond to family and children’s needs must be place-based, spring from an understanding of each unique situation and location and provide strong structural supports. It is this aligned philosophy and passion that Patricia brings to Playgroup Australia.

Patricia has had an extensive corporate career in government and not-for profit organisations designing and implementing effective social support services in the areas of education and health. She has many years working in the early childhood sector both at frontline delivery and in Vocational Training.
Most recently she pioneered and established play therapy services within schools and early childhood services for children impacted by trauma and playgroups that support and enhance the attachment relationship between parent and child through play. Patricia’s skills include executive leadership and organisational strategic planning, team leadership, experience delivering services from within a social justice framework, and business acumen.

She has held executive, leadership and policy roles in the NSW State Government and not for profit organisations. She holds a master’s in early childhood education, complemented by certifications in executive leadership, vocational training and auditing

Join Our Team

Want to work for a National non-profit that helps strengthen families and communities through play?
If you enjoy working within a small close knit team, that offers flexibility and a positive working environment – contact us to share your skills and be considered for future roles.

Creating a village through play!

Email Us

Join Our Team